Some people live with teeth they’re not happy about. It somehow seems easier than going to a dentist. But the teeth you can live with now may not be tolerable later. Why not consider saving yourself a lot of potential discomfort, inconvenience, pain and expense?
1. Chipped or cracked teeth
This is a common condition, affecting about 8 in 10 people over the age of 40. It could even be that the patient doesn’t know a tooth is cracked; only that it has become sensitive to heat and cold.
Causes
It could be that cracks have been caused by the patient’s bite, which is the way their jaw (and teeth) meet up when closed. Cracks also happen with age, as the teeth are weakened with normal wear and tear. People who grind their teeth may also have exerted too much pressure on some teeth, resulting in cracks. Even biting hard foods can cause the damage.
Treatment
If you have pain, then an ice pack held to your cheek will help, alongside over the counter analgesics, such as Paracetamol.
Professional dentistry may involve correcting the bite, using systems such as Invisalign. However, teeth straightening will not tackle the shape of the tooth. This is where veneers or onlays can help. These will produce the comfort desired as well as the appearance.
2. Stained or discoloured teeth
Discoloured teeth are not necessarily the result of poor oral hygiene. The best oral hygiene routine may not prevent yellowing.
Causes
The foods and drinks we consume can cause staining.
Prescribed medication may be the cause.
Medical conditions such as anaemia and diabetes can damage the enamel of the teeth, which results in discolouration.
Treatment
Teeth whitening
There is no shortage of over the counter and online treatments on the market. However, these cannot be sold in strengths which produce the results people are hoping for.
If manufacturers increase the strength, then they will be breaking the law. So the best – and safest – treatment is provided by registered dentists and dental practitioners, who are allowed to provide teeth whitening in sufficient strength to be effective.
3. Crooked teeth
The demand for teeth straightening has increased in recent years, and the technology used in creating devices for straightening teeth has advanced considerably.
Causes
Uneven teeth may be genetic. The condition is often caused by overcrowding or by the shape of the jaw.
Treatment
Orthodontics for adults can now create a straight smile, bespoke to each patient’s teeth. Additionally, with a solution like Invisalign, there is no adverse impact on the patient’s appearance whilst the treatment progresses. These almost undetectable options are so much more attractive than the traditional impression of chunky metal braces. Even more tempting is the fact that for some patients, Quick Straight Teeth can provide the answer in a much shorter timescale.
4. Tooth decay
The Oral Health Foundation tells us that 1 in 3 adults has tooth decay and 3 in 4 adults have had at least 1 tooth taken out.
Causes
Bacteria
Too much sugar
Poor oral hygiene
If the teeth remain untreated, the decay can spread more deeply into the teeth, causing pain, infection and ultimately the loss of the teeth.
Treatment
Reduce sugar intake
Stop snacking (not having a proper break between eating weakens the teeth)
Maintain a good oral hygiene routine – brush twice a day, floss, and don’t miss any check ups at your dentist.
5. Gum disease
It’s alarming to think that research has revealed 9 out of 10 adults in the UK have gum disease to various extents. There are 3 types: gingivitis – inflamed tissued surrounding the teeth; periodontitis – which happens when gingivitis isn’t treated, and affects the bones and ligaments around the teeth; and acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis, which develops suddenly.
Causes
Build up of plaque, causing inflammation and bleeding
Smoking
Pregnancy
Some types of medication
Dry mouth syndrome
Treatment
Mild gum disease can be treated with improved brushing and flossing
More serious cases can be treated using antibiotics
Surgery may have to be the answer
The Mall Dental can help you to maintain your oral health. It’s worth having a chat with one of the friendly team members there.
